Chapter 57
The Threat to Celestina
The Gra Valkas Empire, Imperial Capital Ragna, Imperial Palace, 19th November 1526 / 227
The Gra Valkas Empire's officials that the Emperor's Office assigns to Leifor are attending the conference held by Emperor Gralux. The goal of the conference is to threaten the Celestina Empire by making Mu their hostage. If Celestina threatens back, the Gra Valkas Empire will mobilize their army to the war.
The participants are:
*Commander of the Eastern Fleet, Fleet Admiral Caesar.
*Commander of the Imperial Judgment Force, Admiral Mirkenses.
*Commander of the Imperial Defense, Siegs.
*Information Bureau Officer, Hamidall.
*Information Bureau, Naguano.
*Director of Foreign Affairs Leifor Branch, Gesta.
*Vice-Director/Chief Diplomat of Otherworld Leifor Branch, Cielia.
*Vice-Chief Diplomat of Otherworld Leifor Branch, Dallas.
*Commander-in-chief of Second Civilization Conquest Army, Walther Dietrich.
*Other officials.
The topic of the discussion is the Celestina Empire and threatening Mu. If the Gra Valkas Empire succeeds in making Mu surrender by the sheer numbers of the ground army, they can use it as a bargaining chip to coerce Celestina. Little did they realize, the Zealots have wiretapped their conversation as they have placed a hidden camera to identify each of them, and the Main Council, Main Advisor, and the Eclipse Empire's Royalty are listening.
The announcer opens the meeting, "We will now begin the meeting to discuss how to conquer Mu and threaten Celestina."
Gralux looks at the report provided by Naguano and Caesar. It seems Celestina possesses more sophisticated technology than they thought. "How could on Earth an Empire where the citizens are adventurers able to make the technology like this!? That's presumptuous!"
Gralux's words shook Hamidall body for a bit, but later, he shows the photograph taken by one of the Gra Valkas Empire spies that manage to infiltrate the Celestina Empire.
"This is the photograph that was taken by one of our spies when they entered Celestina months ago… People of Celestina call it the trial to S League. We also have the camera ready to roll it, should these findings do not convince Your Grace. Some of our spies took this photo every three minutes. We can infiltrate Celestina because we maintain our neutrality and prevent any actions that can catch the attention of the Celestina Intelligence Agency, known as the CIISA, and the Zealots.
We expect that they allow us to get as much intel as possible, as long as we didn't come into contact or hire one of the Celestina locals to do our job."
Emperor Gralux, Caesar, and other officials look at the pictures taken by their spies one after another. It displays Celestina's national power that reaches the height where the Gra Valkas Empire can't reach. Cielia looks at the picture with cold sweat, as what she saw in the vision seems true if the Gra Valkas Empire continues its campaign for world domination. Gralux and the others are looking at the pictures as they found something terrifying about Celestina.
The national power, its technology, the civilians, and its military, everything is beyond what they can expect. Celestina can dominate all other countries when they want to, but some primary question lingers on them. How could an adventurer-based country able to rise into a state of Superpower? How were they able to gain so much fortune with a single primary job, adventurer?
Naguano opened the book that he obtained from one of Celestina's book stores months ago, and he issues a command to the book, "Information about S League."
The book speaks, surprising them. "Certainly. S League is the terms of the elite rank of the Celestina Adventurers, the one who enters the breaking point of their capabilities, starting from S Rank. In terms of strength and military, one person at S League is equal to at least a Battalion-sized personnel. In terms of civilian duties, they work with the highest efficiency. Over ten million of the S League members serve as the backbone of the Celestina Empire."
After listening to the book's description, it views the power of the S League. Fast paperwork, agility that can reach the speed of sound, superior strength, everything is where the humans call them a superhuman or a person with abilities superior to others. After listening to the content, none of them dare to raise a word, realizing the potential threat should Celestina deploy the members of the S League.
Caesar questions Naguano about the book's finding, "Does the book contains accurate information? Including our arsenals and the classified ones?"
Naguano nodded, supported by Hamidall. "Yes, sir. They know all of our arsenals, including our top-secret specifications on the Grade Atlastar and the larger ship we're working at, known as Super Yamato-class and 51cm Naval gun from Celestina's perspective."
The situation goes into further gloom as Emperor Gralux wrinkles his forehead even further. He was enraged to see how this fantasy-based country could ruin the pride of the Gra Valkas Empire single-handedly.
"Gesta, Cielia, Dallas. Invite Celestina and threatens them. If they choose to threaten us back, increase our men again. Dietrich, we will conquer Mu as planned before we move to obliterate the Holy Milishial Empire. Caesar, increase the Submarine fleet to ruin their convoy! No matter how good their technology is, as long as we can catch them on the seas, they will turn into nothing but meat for the sharks! Use our dangerous propaganda content to intimidate them. Should they also do the same thing, let's see if the information was right."
"Y-yes, Your Majesty!"
"For the last thing. I will authorize using the atomic bomb and revive all abandoned research a year ago, such as the recent jet engine. I want our chance to win to increase, no matter what."
"Yes, sir!"
Caesar, however, is having some uneasiness when he carries out the Emperor's order. After the meeting, he went to meet with Hamidall and Naguano.
"Hamidall, Naguano. Investigate Celestina further. They're now our number one priority to defeat."
"As you say, sir."
The Gra Valkas Empire, not intending to back down after they declare world domination, decides to threaten Celestina.
The Celestina Empire, Imperial Capital of Natunia, CIISA War Council Room
The Main Council and the royals of the Eclipse Empire grin as the Gra Valkas Empire now start to get threatened by the existence of the Celestina Empire. Sacchito is expecting that Jacob and LaCroix will get an invitation from the Gra Valkas Empire soon.
"It looks like they grew wary of us."
"Now, they will increase the blockade. We will immediately prepare the convoy, and we will assign a fleet to protect it." Alicia looks at the map as she maps out the convoy map. Celestina will send a completed Sherman Tank, Sherman Firefly, and partial construction of P-51 Lightning, P-47 Thunder, and the carrier-based fighter, where Mu will finish it at Mu Mainland.
"Even though we can use the portal, we will use it when we're in a rush to send it. Now we know they have nuclear arsenals; I think both of you are suitable to handle this job, am I correct?"
Looking at Armada and Tiamat, they nodded as they make a devilish smile. Armada knows that the radioactive can serve as a good snack, and so is Tiamat. The challenge now is when Jacob and LaCroix visit the Gra Valkas Empire to receive their "threat" from the homeland.
The Celestina Empire, Zaid – Mu Convoy, 1st Master Convoy Fleet, 27th December 1526 / 227, 3,000km East of Mu
Celestina deploys the 1st Master Convoy Fleet, consisting of almost two hundred transport ship that carries materials and supplies for Mu. Escorting the Convoy Fleet, Celestina deploys Battle Group Moonlight Sea, including the 1st Expeditionary Fleet, 2nd "Ocean Crystal" Division, and 3rd "Ocean Storm" Division. Celestina wants to opt for air and teleportation for transport, but they choose to lay low for a while.
Merchant, Supply, and Transport Ship:
Total of 220 Ships
*40 Panamax-class Bulk Ship
*48 Sovereign-class Container Ship
*55 Reefer Ship
*30 RORO vehicles
*12 Sovereign-class Tanker
*35 Cruise-class Transport Ship
Units carried (228.000 personnel)
*Ballistic Ranger 1st Army (100.000)
*4th "Judgment Archer" Division
*2nd "Falcon Eyes" Division
*8th "Ballista" Armored Division
*1st Shock Trooper Division (15.000)
**101st and 102nd War Maidens Squadron Company
**10th, 11th, and 12th Red Wings Battalion
**3rd and 4th Artillery Regiment
**77th Helljumpers Regiment
Battle Group Valkyrie (75.000)
*3rd Special Combat Division
*8th Special Combat Division
*81st Special Combat Support Division
*102nd Special Combat Support Division
*5th Regiment "Blue Stallion."
*3rd Regiment "Boudica Boys."
*15th Regiment "White Knights."
1st Royal Guardsman Army (35.000 Personnel)
*1st Royal Defender Battalion
*2nd Royal Defender Battalion
10th Gunbounder Regiment (3.000 Personnel)
Escort fleet:
Battle Group Moonlight Sea
*40 Plasma-class Destroyer
*40 Magnetic-class Destroyer
*24 Halcyon-class Light Missile Cruiser
*18 Valkyrie-class Cruiser
*4 Vanguard-class Battleship
*5 Guardian-class Aircraft Carrier
*1 Scharlwarltz-class Superheavy Battleship, "Mechania." (Flagship)
*Flauvel Combat Fleet
*Undine 2nd "Ocean Crystal" Division
*Undine 3rd "Ocean Storm" Division
Since this is the first convoy to be dispatched, Celestina already intends to deploy Battle Group Scharlwarltz. For this convoy, Mechania, a Scharlwarltz-class Superheavy Battleship, was selected as the flagship, with Feena and Cecilia inside the bridge to command the convoy. Vice-Admiral Ishiene is in charge of ocean security, and Randgris is in charge of aerial security. Commander Faira participates by deploying her Recon Prowler Alpha Team and flies at forty-five thousand meters.
The ship makes a circular formation, leaving no gap for the Gra Valkas Submarines to slip through. Shina initially didn't want to deploy a Scharlwarltz-class Superheavy Battleship. But, since this is the first convoy and the conflict was on a global scale, she will allow the Main Council to use it only for escort purposes.
The 1st Master Convoy Fleet Ships distanced themselves around 300 to 500 meters between each ship, allowing them to maneuver for an incoming enemy torpedo. Overall, the convoy's length was thirty-kilometer wide and forty-kilometer in length. If any submarine saw this, it will be a huge prize to sink any of these vessels.
Faira looks at the holo-table, but she notices something is not right. "We got at least thirty submarines, moving in groups. Possible of wolfpack unit."
"Copy that. I will move to investigate the surrounding." Ishiene moves to swim around the perimeter, searching for any enemy submarine she can find. The other Undines also spreads out to search for the submarines.
The Gra Valkas Empire, Wolfpack Combat Fleet, Command Submarine Roaring Lion
"That's a lot of convoys!" Commander of the Wolfpack Combat Fleet, Captain Wolfram, is watching Celestina's convoy from the periscope. Commanding a Meteor-class Submarine, he observes the movements of the 1st Master Convoy Fleet. He observes every merchant ship, and he identifies the ship that has a gun as a warship. While the distance was 20km away, the size of the vessel was enough to convince him that it was a huge ship.
"If they reach Mu, our boys at Leifor will be in trouble! Battle stations, everyone! Let's sink them as many as we could!"
"Yeah!"
Captain Wolfram receives a message from Caesar a week ago about Celestina's capabilities. They may possess a sonar that can detect the submarine, and maintaining distance is the only choice to take. Losing contact with the Black Fang several months ago, Wolfram speculates that Celestina may indeed possess the sonar and anti-submarine arsenals.
He brings around fifty-six submarines, and all of them had arrived from one of the hidden refueling base weeks ago. They've heard a report that Mu has sent a fleet assigned to the Eleventh Country Leadership Conference to the Celestina Empire months ago, and they miss to catch it. If it looked from World War II's perspective, the convoy was huge enough to supply up to two million men for three years.
The distance to Mu is three days away, with at least the covering distance of a thousand kilometers a day, assuming the convoy's speed was 40 kilometers per hour. The Gra Valkas Empire Wolfpack Combat Fleet will send the message back to the homeland about the imminent threat.
"Let's see… Our target is…." Looking at the ships, the defense perimeter in front of him seems tight. "That white ship over there, and that brown ship over there."
To differentiate between each ship in front of Mu, Celestina paints each ship with different colors. The Bulk Ship was painted in white, the Container Ship was painted in green, the RORO ship was painted in blue, Reefer Ship was painted in grey, and Tanker Ship was painted in brown.
"Start the attack! All submarines, pick your targets and fire and will!"
The submarines, distancing themselves one kilometer from each other, began injecting water into torpedo tubes. As soon as the torpedo is ready to launch, Wolfram orders the gunner crew to fire four torpedoes.
"Fire!"
The first two torpedoes and the last torpedoes launch in a range of ten seconds. But, halfway reaching the target, some torpedo began to lose its wake, while the convoy starts to perform evasive maneuvers to evade torpedoes. Wolfram raises his eyebrow, curious as he wondered why the torpedo was not even reaching the target. The range was twenty kilometers away, and it should hit at least one of the convoys around five more minutes, but somehow he lost track of all torpedoes.
"That's strange… Where did our torpedoes go?"
SPLASH!
Suddenly, a Constellan-class submarine explodes, and an unknown attack also explodes a Comet-class submarine.
"W-what!?"
"Where's the attack coming from!?"
The crews are confused as they didn't pick anything irregular, but the sonar operator somehow finds something strange.
"Weird…"
"Tell me what's wrong!"
"I heard fishes swimming around at a fast speed, sir."
Wolfram remembers Gra Valkas's intel that Celestina may feature an underwater soldier, Undine, and he knew that the mermaids are part of the escort. Knowing they can't find a way to defeat them, Wolfram considers calling off the attack on Celestina's convoy.
The Celestina Empire, 1st Master Convoy Fleet, Flagship Mechania
Feena and Cecilia are looking at the list of every material they send to Mu. The list includes the P-51 Mustang, P-47 Thunderbolt, Sea Hornet, Firebrand, and Firefly to strengthen Mu's air capabilities. Celestina will lend the Sherman Firefly, M4 Sherman, "Crab" Sherman, Bofors Halftrack, 17 Pounder, 40mm Bofors, and 57mm AT gun, including the ammunition, to reinforce the ground unit. Mu's Marin is currently unable to defeat the Gra Valkas Empire Air Force. To bolster Celestina's presence on Mu, the Main Council deploys Battle Group Valkyrie, 1st Ranger Army, Battle Group Rookie, and 10th Gunbounder Regiment to the front line. All of them are at the 1st Master Convoy Fleet.
The 10th Gunbounder Regiment is a new Regiment created 20 years ago to support the Celestina artillery unit. There are two vehicles used for primary combat and another two vehicles as support. Armour LR-7 and Kalsiddon MT-2 are the primary vehicles, while Bigfoot RB-4 and Lightning TS-2 serve as the support vehicles.
Feena looks at the holo-table to observe the current situation of the convoy. "Seems we have a company that attempts to attack us."
Cecilia looks at the southern perimeter, where Ishiene takes charge to protect it. "Ishiene is already moving to intercept them. The sonar catches the unguided torpedoes and the noise of the submarines. We also got a report of at least six Cetus-class Submarines is deploying their aircraft to ambush the convoy, and Randgris is moving her Valkyries to handle it."
"Unrestricted Submarine Warfare, huh? Let's deploy our Ranger-class and Fighter-class Submarine to raid their supplies for retaliation later."
The warship mainly ignores the Gra Valkas Submarines, but some decide to perform an evasive maneuver should the enemy torpedoes slip through their defense line. They can see some splashes from the horizon, but that doesn't bother them.
The Gra Valkas Empire, Wolfpack Combat Fleet
"We've lost another four submarines!"
"They're surrounding us!"
The crew continues to panic as the Acoustic crew continues to report the sinking of their submarines while none of the torpedoes can hit any of the Celestina's Convoy. Wolfram clenches his fist, aiming to at least sink one of their ships. However, with the loss that reaches fifteen submarines, he has no choice but to retreat.
"Withdraw! All hands, retreat!"
Unwilling to take more losses and none of their torpedoes can reach halfway to the destination, Wolfram decides to make an immediate withdrawal after losing eighteen submarines.
"Deliver the information to the command! We got confirmation that Celestina has mermaids as a part of the personnel!"
"Yes, sir!"
At least the Gra Valkas Empire was able to gain more intel about Celestina, much to their horror that Celestina already has full control of the seas from the start.
The Celestina Empire, Flauvel Combat Fleet
Randgris and twenty Valkyries are exiting their flagship, a Valkyrie-class Cruiser, Aegis Wing. They were in charge of the sky defenses, and once they heard the Gra Valkas Empire deploys the Aircraft, they immediately sortie from the ship to intercept it.
"Found them, around ten of it."
"Let's do a quick work and capture them if possible."
"Yes. Ma'am."
The Valkyries are flying through the sky, and before any Gra Valkas Seaplane arrives in a striking area, they draw their spear and sword.
The Gra Valkas Empire, Acrux-class Seaplane, 15km from 1st Master Convoy Fleet
Ten Acrux-class Seaplane are launched from Cetus-class Submarines in attempts to raid Celestina's 1st Master Convoy Fleet. A Gra Valkas pilot witnesses the large convoy of ships are heading to Mu, "We got a lot of bounties to catch!"
"Our orders are to destroy any of their ships while avoiding their warships! Let's show them our terror!"
"Oo-rah!"
But, the moment their seaplane is about to launch an attack, they saw one of their aircraft was sliced open by an unknown attack.
"W-what!?"
"Where's that coming from!"
Step… Step…
"Huh…?" One of the pilots saw something walks above him, and he saw a beautiful girl looking at him with her sword aiming at his head. She holds a letter of "Surrender, or we will put this plane down into slumber" on her left hand. Looking around, he saw some of the pilots start to maneuver to get the Valkyrie off from their aircraft. But, what he saw is a nightmare as some pilot open their canopies and aim their guns at the girls. But before the handgun even aimed at her, she stabbed one of the pilots through his head.
"I-it can't be…!"
He slows down the aircraft and opens his canopy while his hand continues to pilot the aircraft without attempting to reach the handgun on his waist.
"Spare us…"
The pilots who didn't surrender are killed immediately, and the girls chop the planes apart, sending them to the bottom of the ocean. Witnessing this nightmare, some of the pilots decide to surrender, and the Valkyrie catches their collar, lifting them out of the cockpit before the other girls tear the plane apart. Only two aircraft manage to escape, with four pilots from four different aircraft are captured.
"Sleep." Valkyrie's chanting makes the captured pilot fell into slumber.
Once the business is complete, Randgris and several Valkyries carry the knocked-out pilots attempting to escape from their grasp. They capture four pilots from ten aircraft while shooting down eight aircraft, leaving the remaining two to return to the submarine once Wolfram orders them to retreat.
"Seems we will have more work in the future."
"I've heard they start rebuilding their nuclear arsenals."
"That will be a problem for us… We haven't mastered the resistance against the radioactive."
"Shall we go back, Ma'am? They're retreating."
"Let's go back."
Although this was a skirmish, the news of the massive convoy heading to the Mu reaches Caesar and Walther's ears. With Mu's fortification stronger, the Gra Valkas Empire immediately rush the preparation for invasion.
The Leifor District, 29th December 1526 / 227
The Gra Valkas Empire invites Celestina to make a diplomatic talk. Both have a similar goal, which is to threaten each other. Jacob, accompanied by LaCroix, Rho, and four Zealots disguised as diplomats, are representatives from Celestina. Fleet Admiral Kreuzer, wearing a white admiral uniform and a cape, represents the Eclipse Empire, but Celestina disguises him as a part of Celestina's Military Official.
Celestina uses a small ship, contrary to what the Gra Valkas Empire can expect. Celestina accepts their invitation to make a diplomatic talk, while for the Main Council, this is the best opportunity to threaten the Gra Valkas Empire.
Looking at the former capital of Leifor, Leiforia, they can see the dead eyes of the locals as their spirit was withered by the Gra Valkas Empire two years ago. The treatment was harsh for the locals, as the Gra Valkas Empire may enact a policy similar to Apartheid, where the Gra Valkan people are first-class, while the conquered nation is treated as second-class citizens.
"It feels like they need something to lift up their spirit."
"I agree with it. I will inform the Main Council about this matter."
Because the Gra Valkas Empire guarantees those who wish to make a diplomatic talk, a large fleet or gunboat diplomacy was unnecessary. Looking at the building, it seems the Gra Valkas Empire had just settled in, although they managed to put Leifor into submission two years ago.
Even though the Gra Valkas Empire declares war on the entire world, Celestina has yet to declare war on the Gra Valkas Empire. However, the Main Council is aware that they want Celestina to back off or suffer consequences.
Looking at the report, Jacob opens it. "It seems the Grade Atlastar is almost ready to sail again."
"That fast? I guess they really mean business when it comes to world domination." LaCroix was surprised to see the Grade Atlastar repairs is nearly complete. "But, after what happened during Conference months ago, I think they will install a canopy to prevent Flash Fire."
"Hmm… They may do that. Well… We better get this thing done."
Gra Valkas Empire, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Leifor Branch Office
Hinomawari Kingdom's diplomat has come to declare their surrender. The conflict between Hinomawari Knights and the Gra Valkas Empire's Army at Northern Hinomawari left a big scar on Hinomawari Knights a week ago. From seven thousand soldiers sent to attack the Barkluth Base at Northern Hinomawari, one hundred of them escaped and survived the battle. The Gra Valkas Empire only send around the 9th Assault Battalion, numbered six hundred infantries loaded with MG 42 and Gr 34 8mm Mortar for defenses under the 8th Army, did not lose any men while the base construction continues.
"…and so my country pledges its allegiance to the Gra Valkas Empire and to His Highness, Emperor Gralux. Please… please promise me that you will at least spare the lives of my countrymen and guarantee the provision of their necessities in life…"
The people clad in peculiar native dresses bowed their heads deeply in front of the Gra Valkas Empire diplomat, Dallas. It was the moment a small country had fallen to the empire.
Looking at them with his usual ruthless eyes, Dallas responds.
"His Highness, Emperor Gralux, is magnificent, and his word is absolute! He has spoken that the lives of lowly civilized natives like you must not be taken without reason! You should feel at ease!"
He continues.
"Well then, I will dispatch personnel from the Subjugation Authority! (A mechanism created by the Gra Valkas Empire to rule over other countries) Prepare to receive them. Do treat them with diligence."
The diplomats are leaving Dallas's office with reassured faces. "Hmph. If they knew that earlier, they shouldn't dare to attack us. It's all Celestina's fault…!"
Gra Valkas leaks the news that the Imperial Judgment Force successfully destroy the Zeroth Fleet of the Holy Milishial Empire. However, the resistance carries on when Celestina manages to cripple the Grade Atlastar and obliterating half of the Judgment Force fleet. Only a few countries tend to surrender after hearing the defeat of the Zeroth Fleet, while some countries require a meticulous lesson.
Dallas went out of his office and met Cielia, Dallas's superior, exiting her office room with Gra Valkas Diplomat after some discussion. They are preparing the propaganda movie to threaten Celestina and flaunt their wealth and power.
"How's the talk with the Hinomawari?"
"They've learned their lesson. Now we can continue as planned."
"I don't think it will be that long. We just a word from Captain Wolfram that Celestina deploys a massive convoy to Mu."
Dallas looks surprised to hear that report, "Really?"
Cielia gives the report file to Dallas. "Yes. They've confirmed the presence of the mermaid on their ranks, so we start developing weapons to capture them."
"I see… Who will participate in this meeting?"
"We, the top officers, including our boss, Gesta, and Fleet Admiral Caesar, will also participate, but in disguise."
"Wait!? What?! Disguise!?"
"We want to avoid him being identified as one of Three Imperial General by Celestina. If they can see through his disguise, it could increase their morale to hunt him down."
"I see…"
"I've also heard that Celestina is also a transferred nation. We can use this chance to probe them further."
Cielia and Dallas immediately prepare for the meeting with the Celestina Empire.
After Lunch Break, 1:15 PM, Diplomatic Meeting Room
Jacob and seven other diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs took their seats. Two of the Zealots decide not to take the seat since they will make room for those who take a seat. After some short introductions, the diplomatic negotiations began. On the side of the Gra Valkas Empire are Cielia, Dallas, Gesta, Caesar in disguise, and three others, with Jacob, LaCroix, Kreuzer, and four Zealots disguised as a diplomat.
Dallas kicks off the talk with some anger on his face.
"Well-traveled, all of you from the Empire of Celestina! I still remember how your country ridicules us at the conference! But that doesn't matter since the Foreign Affairs have been busy after we've spread words that we destroy the Milishial's strongest fleet to other countries! What is your business to be here in the first place?"
Jacob slowly begins to speak after sighing hearing his words.
"The Main Council questions the motives of your world conquest. Declaring war on us at the world conference over half a year ago, it's no wonder that we repel your fleet as the first lesson. Have your Empire choose not to attack; the results can be different. Your fleet did a good job on destroying the world's "Strongest Fleet," but why decides to attack the conference as well? Have your Emperor realized that world domination is impossible, or your Empire needs another lesson from it?"
Jacob bluntly provokes them, as he knew that they're still angry about what happened to their Grade Atlastar during the Battle of Folk Strait last April.
Gesta, the superior of Dallas and Cielia, starts to speak.
"You thought by damaging our pride makes us cower before you? This is just a minor setback! We will return with bigger strength to make you cower before us!"
Little do the Gra Valkas Empire Officials realize that two of the Main Council members, Alicia and Cecilia, are watching them through a hidden camera installed at Zealots clothes from the command room at Hereford. They have identified key targets, including Caesar, who disguises as Gra Valkas Military official, Dalron.
"What you did was mere luck, and you won't get away the next time our military attacks Mu! You thought that the Empire that is full of adventurers could stop us?! Only the Holy Milishial Empire is worth the fight!"
"Your country was indeed strong, as you enjoy your privilege being invincible after transfer to this world. The fall of Paganda and Leifor has already proven that your country isn't someone to be looked down on diplomatically.
Isn't that enough for you? What is your Empire strive for?"
Gesta looks at Dallas as they smile ominously, and Dallas replies.
"For all of you to fall beneath us… It is the will of His Highness, Emperor Gralux. This is what's written in His Highness's book.
The reason why there are disputes is the fragmentation of will into the denominations of each country, with the basis of every country's movements simply being their own national interests and only that. If one wishes for true peace, they would need to shadow every other country under their rule with immense strength. However, since there are cases of countries being thrown into chaos due to the egalitarian method of rule, they must be managed with an iron grip on top of recognizing a method of governance that suits those lands.
I will assert that what the empire aims to strive for is eternal peace."
Hearing that word makes Jacob and Celestina's diplomat makes a giggle. Jacob makes a smiling sigh once he calms down, "A rule with an iron fist? You're starting wars while pursuing peace, and yet you extract resources from other nations. I personally think that you can't achieve true peace for that."
"Celestina extract taxes from its local governments, no? Your capital or country does take away the riches earned by locals simply because the head of your country rests in the capital, right?
I hear that Celestina is also at a certain level of civilization. Like most countries, your country must have also governed while experiencing domestic unrest. You see, our empire is doing no more than to do that at the global level."
Hearing that makes Jacob chuckles.
"So that's how your Empire works? That's pitiful. We extract taxes from the government, yes, but they are the servants of the people. We take the money from them, and we return them in better services. For domestic unrest? It has been kept to a minimum for years as Celestina's people always dive into the field to earn more profits. You see, Celestina citizens are working together, side-by-side, to complement each other's growth. We have Nine Leaders of the Nation known as the Main Council, and each of them houses a territory with a responsibility.
Here, we will open a door for you to visit Celestina and witness its national strength with your own eyes. In exchange, we would like to visit your homeland as well to see your civilization. We would like to know more about your country."
The Gra Valkas Empire diplomat notices this, as they knew if Celestina visits their homeland, their location will be certainly known by the others when returning. Gesta whispers to Cielia as she's nodding to her boss.
"I'm afraid that is not possible for us to allow you to enter our homeland. We won't reveal our homeland location as it is."
"That's too bad, then. I want your Empire to reconsider your action before you can put millions of people in a black robe, mourning for the death of their soldiers."
Dallas only chuckles, "Heh, I think it will be on you. Shall we show them about our homeland?"
The Gra Valkas Empire has recently invented a camera projector, allowing them to watch any movie thirty minutes or less outside the movie theatre. Using a 35mm Film Roll with a length of 2000ft is not easy when the Gra Valkas Empire's official made this content for Celestina. It has a duration of thirty minutes if it's running at 18 frames per second.
The officials prepare the content for Celestina diplomats as they dim the light once the setting is complete. Then, the staff operates the camera as the visual is projected into a screen in front of them.
It starts from the Gra Valkas Empire's life at the capital Ragna, as people and the vehicles roam around with dignity and pride. When Gralux makes his address, people are cheering him with zeal and enthusiasm. It promises any nations assimilated by the Gra Valkas Empire, turning them into the age of prosperity under its rule. Workers and farmers got more paycheck while enjoying a lesser price on the market to bolster its growth.
The parliament supports the rule of the Gra Valkas Emperor, barely questioning his decree or actions. The officials and Parliament members have the same mind as the Emperor, to rule the world with the Gra Valkas as the center of the world. Therefore, they will strengthen the military to bring order to the world they dominate.
The military parade was held to show the strength of the Gra Valkas Empire to display their power to other nations, the pride of its ship, the Grade Atlastar, boasts the most powerful guns in the history of the Gra Valkas Empire. Talented people are hired to bolster its strength. The military is the pinnacle of the Gra Valkas Empire's strength as their power will give its people security and prosperity.
It's Ground Army, Air Force, and Navy, all of them are working side-by-side to ensure the world kneels before Emperor Gralux. Celestina saw Gra Valkas's Tank, such as Tiger II, Panther, and even M26 Pershing. For the Airforce, aside from the A6M Zero model, it seems they also have F6F Grumman, Supermarine Spitfire, and Douglas Bomber.
The Gra Valkas Empire, destined to rule the planet Yggdra, will become the Empire ruled under the leadership of Gralux. Any of those who oppose the Gra Valkas Empire will be punished severely, and the Gra Valkas Empire displays the destruction of the Kingdom of Paganda and Leifor years ago. They also display the testing of nuclear weapons, aiming to deter Celestina.
The Gra Valkas now aims for a solid goal, world domination, and bring every civilization on their knees. Those who oppose the will of Emperor Gralux will be dealt with accordingly.
Celestina representatives look at the propaganda movie created by the Gra Valkas Empire; even Alicia and Cecilia can look at it from a hidden camera inside Jacob's beret. It flaunts their wealth, but somehow, the advancement of civilian technology severely lacks as they focus on the military. Thus, they feel somehow disappointed with it.
Gesta, Dallas, and other Gra Valkas Diplomat, aside from Cielia and Caesar in disguise, are grinning once they look at Celestina's reaction that seems speechless.
"How'd you like it? It seems some of you are threatened after seeing this movie. Tell me, are you willing to leave Mu to us?"
Caesar, disguised as Dalron, speaks up as he stops Dallas. "I've received a report from my superior two days ago. Celestina has sent a large convoy in that fleet. Are you determined to defend Mu?"
Jacob smilingly answered, "Celestina will defend it, and we will not back off. So now, it's our turn to give you some content about us."
They took out a holographic projector, and LaCroix sets the lens to the screen used by the Gra Valkas Empire earlier. Cielia looks at it, so do the Gra Valkas officials.
"What kind of device is that? Is it a magical projector?"
"No. It's a holographic projector."
"But, does it have an electrical standard?"
"Do not worry about that. It has a built-in battery."
"What? Do you intend to relay from your home country? You're not supposed to bring in large machinery."
"Yes, and no. We can relay things from our home country, but we will use this."
LaCroix shows a chip with the size of a thumb to Gesta, Cielia, Dallas, and Dalron.
"!"
They were at a loss for words.
In order to play videos, there are two methods that a camera operator can use to record any events. The first is through a camera, where the Gra Valkas Empire just demonstrated it a while ago. The second is to record it on videotape, which requires massive equipment to perform playback. They couldn't wrap their heads at the fact that a video is recorded on a card-shaped device with a size of an adult thumb and a holographic projector that possesses a built-in playback capability.
Once everything is prepared, the room went into a dim once again.
A male AI wearing a pilot suit appears from the projector, welcomes them.
"Welcome, representatives of the Gra Valkas Empire. I will now display to you the Empire of Celestina."
The video starts with the screen turns white, but later it dissipates as the fog slowly exposes the beautiful view of Celestina's field while a white wisp flies through, filling the screen with whiteness. Finally, the screen turns to the people gathering at the Council Meeting, as Gra Valkas can see the half face of the newly elected Empress, Chloe de Fleuve, before moving to the next screen.
The first to appear are the adjutants of the Main Council, followed by the first Main Council member to appear with the crown is Freya, with some of her Elite Magicians. The next to appear is Cecilia with a Stanchion Barrett on her back, giving a briefing to her Sniper Team; the next screen features Shiela Synclaire with the army of mythical cavalry, rallying for the War Games. Maya looks at them as in the background are the army of insects, while Feena looks at them with the Army of Mechs and Tanks surrounding her. The next to appear is Sofya, accompanied by Gus, one of her trusted guardsman commanders tending to the sick patient, while Alicia is lecturing the students at the academy. Next, Eleonora tests the candidates of the War Maidens Squadron while the Main Council Advisors are discussing each other. Next, Emelone and Randgris make their appearance, representing sea and sky. The last one to appear is Sacchito.
"That's absurd!"
Dallas bluntly speaks such words while Dolnar and Cielia realize the girls with a crown and Sacchito are the Main Council members. But for Caesar, he can confirm Celestina possesses a sea and air superiority, ruled by Undine and Valkyries. As a result, they can feel some cold sweat on their forehead.
The next video features the First Celestina World War against the Trumper Empire, where the Gra Valkas Officials are astonished to see the warships similar to the Grade Atlastar. Desperate battle in Legatus Island, turning the tide against the Trumper Empire, eventually dragged into the First Interstellar War and the First Interstellar Dimensional War.
The Military campaign, sometimes with joint operation with adventurers due to the opponent with mixed monsters and military, is where Celestina starts to get creative on their campaign.
Celestina struggles, triumph, rebuild and assimilate the country at the mainland without any conquest. Flaunted by the Main Council's influence and willingness to assist them, those who were assimilated become a part of the country they have known today as a Celestina Empire. In practice, Celestina did not conquer them. Instead, they are willing to join Celestina, affected by such influence, believing that the Main Council is their ruler. Thus, the entire mainland is effectively put under the control of the Main Council.
The territory splits into nine, with each member of the Main Council rules it. They bestow their Mantle of Responsibility to the Prime Minister of each domain. Those who become the best of the best will be appointed as the Emperor to carry the will of the Main Council.
The Main Council travels from one world to another, entrusting their command to the Prime Minister and Emperor. Studying, learning, exploring, and form a relationship with any country they find during their journey. Every experience they learn, are culminated in the Library Palace at Studia, where it houses logs of adventure from the Main Council Member. In addition, the Main Advisor serves as a consultant and assistant to assist the growth of the Celestina Empire.
Guided by wisdom, preparing to face every possible threat, the Gra Valkas Empire Officials witness Celestina's path to prosperity. The First to Sixth Interstellar War, the S League of Celestina, and how the country grows into a Superpower in the galaxy. For Caesar, it was a nightmare comes true, as the information about the S League was, indeed, correct. Furthermore, the information he obtained from the books sold by Celestina is clearly accurate, not a fabricated one or propaganda.
In Caesar's mind, the Gra Valkas Empire pokes a nest that shouldn't be bothered. Their doctrine of war is different from them, as Celestina's method of war is clearly unorthodox in front of his eyes. Compared to the Gra Valkas that must conquer nations, Celestina faces hundreds of applications from countries that wish to become a part of the Celestina Empire every year.
Dallas laughs once he finishes watching the video made by Celestina.
"HA HA HA HA! What nonsense! This video is fake, and they can easily fake and manipulate such information!"
"Oh, I doubt about that."
The screen projects Alicia, who looks at them. Jacob, LaCroix, and other Celestina diplomats are bowing in front of her, much to the Gra Valkas side surprise that the broadcast can reach all the way here without any interference.
"Grand Duchess Alicia."
"We survive six Interstellar War, with four of it, an Interdimensional War. If you thought that we fabricate this information, then explain to me how our Cruiser can ridicule your pride."
The Gra Valkas Diplomats, except for Cielia and Dalron, have wrinkles on their foreheads. Dallas starts to speak again.
"Hmph! It does seem your video technology is remarkably advanced… If the video was real, how can you not dominate your home planet, St. Celestina?
If it were Gra Valkas, we would make it so. When we win this, we will take all of your weapons and military tech away so that you could no longer stand up to us. In fact, it seems you didn't want to take the initiative to conquer other nations. With your leaders often goes away for adventure, I would doubt you find any information useful for the growth of your Empire.
If your country is indeed powerful, then you should lead the World Union to victory and make you popular with the other nations and weaken the Empire in process. However, this did not happen. If you are indeed powerful, then the actions of your country are illogical. Are you telling us not to attack Mu? Else, Celestina will go into war?
Your country is just a mere adventurer, and if you can do it, then stop us! Your actions up to this point prove that your country is weak!"
Alicia grin at Jacob, which makes him respond to Dallas's provocation.
"Is that so? Then don't blame us if you lose more than what you can get. We're here to give you a chance to redeem yourself. If I'm in your position, I will learn more about your country before declaring war. It would seem that you did not know the concept of "Know Your Enemy." Rather, you Empire thought that you can conquer every nation with brute force, or in our terms, the way of the barbarian."
When Dallas was about to interfere further, Cielia stops him. "That's enough, Dallas. You already represent us from the Gra Valkas Empire's perspective." Once the situation cools down, she asks the question to Celestina's representative. "Supposed that the technology you have shown us earlier is genuine and your country's military technology outclasses that of the Empire's, what is it that you wish from us?"
Jacob looks at Alicia, and she makes her speak through holographic projection.
"Complete withdrawal from Second Civilization, and accept the punishment imposed by the Holy Milishial Empire and Mu."
"The Empire has already begun settling down in the Second Civilization Area. There are also people interested in these settlements. Do you think the Empire will accept these conditions?"
Alicia signs off as the holographic projector turns off, and Jacob speaks to her.
"Whether your Empire will accept it or not, it doesn't matter. After showing how advanced our technology is, you need to consider that our military strength far exceeds yours. The difference between Celestina and your Empire is more than six hundred years. You turn down our offer to visit Celestina to know our strength, which should you accept our offer to visit Celestina, you can lead your Empire to decide to save themselves by steer clear of war by their own volition.
You should know the concept of "Know Your Enemy" before making such a rash decision like this. I do hope your Empire reviews the overall situation properly, as I wish you to avoid offering your own Empire to destruction by our hands. Regardless of what happened today, Celestina determines to defend Mu."
"We… We will be discussing this matter and sending this report to the higher-ups."
When no one wishes to say further, Kreuzer threatens the Gra Valkas Empire with a smile.
"I do wish you enjoy your day, as our spear already reaches far west."
"What!?"
The diplomats did not understand what Kreuzer was saying, but Caesar realizes it as their homeland is now compromised. Afterward, the meeting ended after reaching another impasse.
Cielia and Dallas hands over their report to Gesta and Caesar. Before Gesta could rewrite the report to fabricate it, Caesar intercepts him.
"I will not let you fabricate these reports, Gesta."
"But they're just a country of an adventurer! We should give them more lessons!"
"No. I would rather be careful about this threat. I've heard from other civilizations that one member of the Main Council is enough to suppress any country with current technology in this world."
"That's bullshit!"
"The Emperor orders us to double more personnel, and we will blitzkrieg them once the preparation is complete. Do you understand?"
"Y-yes…"
By the time the report reaches the military and Emperor's office, some officials start to express their concern while some ridicule it as they thought the information was fake. Finally, Gralux, receiving a report from Cielia and Dallas, gets angered as he immediately orders more personnel to dispatch to Leifor, aiming to demolish Mu and humiliate Celestina further.
The Gra Valkas Empire on Hinomawari continues to construct its base. As the Emperor's order, they increase their capacity to accommodate supplies for six hundred thousand strong personnel for six months.
Author's note:
I enjoy playing Knights in the Nightmare and I'm using its opening as references
Also, sorry for the late release. I got a deadline of three months for the Dissertation and I'm also researching about OoB (Order of Battle) for the GVE invasion of Mu.